Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, for supporting energy and resilience to stress, which are functions often attributed to the adrenal glands. Modern research has identified that one of licorice root’s main active compounds, glycyrrhizin, can inhibit the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2. This inhibition leads to increased levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, by preventing its conversion to inactive cortisone.

Some small-scale clinical studies and animal research suggest that licorice root can help prolong the biological activity of endogenous cortisol, potentially offering support in cases of adrenal insufficiency or fatigue. However, the evidence is limited and not robust, with only a few human clinical trials and most data coming from laboratory or animal models. Additionally, excessive use of licorice root has been associated with significant side effects, such as hypertension and hypokalemia, due to its mineralocorticoid-like effects, which limit its safe use.

In summary, while there is a plausible biochemical mechanism and some preliminary scientific evidence supporting licorice root’s effects on adrenal function, high-quality clinical trials are lacking. Therefore, its use for adrenal support is partially justified by scientific evidence, but caution is warranted due to potential side effects.

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